It’s scary to think the Minnesota Lynx could even be better. They have had a spotless start to the season, winning all four games so far. Napheesa Collier has been in MVP form with almost 30 points per game, while Courtney Williams has been a creative monster with 7.3 assists per game. But they are still missing a key piece of their puzzle, Kayla McBride.

McBride lit up the court in 2024, delivering her best season yet with the Minnesota Lynx and her most electrifying offensive performance since 2018. She was a consistent force across 39 games, averaging 15.0 points, 3.2 assists, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 31.7 minutes per contest. Her efficiency was just as impressive as she shot a sharp 42.0% from the field and a lethal 40.7% from beyond the arc.

McBride pulled out of the early part of the season, citing personal reasons. It is not an injury, but could be a break after a busy offseason in Unrivaled and even overseas. Considering her vital contribution to Minnesota’s 2024 finals run, the fans are eager to have her back on the court to complete the job.

Will Kayla McBride participate against the Seattle Storm?

The franchise has been eerily quiet on McBride’s return but her appearance in the team practice has raised the hopes among fans. Considering the photos that Lynx posted, it was not just a visit but an active participation in training from McBride. So the guard is back in regular training but it will still take time to get back in the groove after a break from McBride. She participated in multiple competitions in the offseason to get that WNBA mojo back will take time. The coach, Cheryl Reeve, is certainly delighted to have the veteran back at her disposal.

“I don’t know if the mood changes, but we’re happy to see her, no question about it,” said head coach Cheryl Reeve about McBride’s return to practice. “We have a good group whose mood is always in this really good space. K-Mac adds to it for sure.”

As a veteran who’s been with the Lynx since 2018, Kayla’s more than just a scorer—she’s the glue that keeps the locker room tight. Her voice carries weight, especially for younger players like Diamond Miller, who’s been holding down the backcourt.

Although Kayla McBride remains officially listed as out for the Lynx’s upcoming game against the Seattle Storm, her return is approaching. She could be back as early as next week in the matchup against the Golden State Valkyries, though the team has yet to confirm a specific timeline. In her absence, Minnesota has leaned on a combination of young guards and role players to carry the backcourt load.

What will McBride bring to this already formidable Minnesota Lynx Squad?

It has been a perfect start for Lynx so far with a 4-0 record. One asterisk to their blazing start is the teams they have faced so far this season. They are yet to face a genuine title challenger like the indiana Fever or the Liberty. Storm will be a considerable step up in quality from the teams they have faced so far, as they recently dominated the Las Vegas Aces, who are also expected to be a confirmed playoff team.

McBride’s return removes some pressure off Collier, who has been in worldly form so far but now she has McBride to share the load. She will beef up the attack and provide more options going forward.

“I know what I bring to this team, and I want to be at my best for my teammates,” McBride said during preseason interviews. “Sometimes that means listening to my body and taking the time I need to be ready for the grind.”

Against better opponents, the variety in attack will prove extremely useful. McBride’s scoring and creative prowess will provide the Lynx more balance across the board. Her play from outside the perimeter also adds another dimension along with her experience. It will allow Reeve to solidify her best starting lineup and give definitive roles to each player in the squad.